The albums that define
classical music.
Our picks for where to start with classical music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top classical music artists
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The classical music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Giuseppe Verdi
Ernani
Dramatic orchestral arrangements intertwine with powerful vocal performances, embodying the passion and intensity of romantic opera.
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Mike Oldfield
Music of the Spheres
A celestial journey through ambient soundscapes interwoven with orchestral textures and ethereal melodies.
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Mike Oldfield
Tubular Bells II
A lush tapestry of progressive rock and ambient soundscapes, weaving intricate melodies with ethereal instrumentation.
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Paul McCartney
Off the Ground
A vibrant blend of pop rock and thoughtful lyrics, layered with McCartney's signature melodic finesse and rich instrumentation.
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Paul McCartney
Run Devil Run
A spirited blend of rock and roll covers infused with McCartney's signature charm and energy.
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Cecilia Bartoli
The Vivaldi Album
This specific album highlights Bartoli's vibrant interpretation of Vivaldi, allowing listeners to experience her remarkable ability to convey emotion through complex melodies. It's an engaging blend of familiar compositions and Bartoli's signature style that invites exploration.
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London Philharmonic Orchestra
Kashmir: Symphonic Led Zeppelin
Orchestral arrangements breathe new life into rock classics, blending symphonic grandeur with the raw energy of Led Zeppelin.
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Chet Atkins
Picks on the Hits
A collection of smooth, melodic interpretations that blend country, pop, and jazz into a seamless acoustic tapestry.
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Chet Atkins
Stringin' Along with Chet Atkins
A vibrant blend of fingerstyle guitar techniques and playful melodies that showcases Atkins' mastery across genres.
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London Philharmonic Orchestra
Diamond Music
A lush tapestry of orchestral textures intertwines with contemporary rhythms, creating an evocative soundscape that bridges tradition and innovation.
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Léo Ferré
Je te donne
A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and poignant lyricism that captures the essence of French chanson.
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Léo Ferré
Je parle à n'importe qui
Intimate melodies intertwine with poignant lyrics, blending French pop sensibilities with classical undertones and Ferré's signature vocal delivery.
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Rick Wakeman
Cost of Living
A kaleidoscopic blend of progressive rock and classical elements, infused with an ambient atmosphere and rich storytelling.
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Rick Wakeman
Return to the Centre of the Earth
A sweeping blend of orchestral arrangements and progressive rock elements, evoking an epic journey through sound and story.
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Wynton Marsalis
Blue Interlude
A sweeping exploration of jazz and blues that intertwines storytelling with improvisational brilliance.
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Wynton Marsalis
From the Plantation to the Penitentiary
A profound exploration of social issues through intricate jazz compositions and powerful storytelling.
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André Rieu
And the Waltz Goes On
A lush orchestral tapestry of waltzes and beloved melodies, echoing the charm of Viennese ballrooms.
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André Rieu
Forever Vienna
A lush orchestral celebration of Viennese classics, blending waltzes and polkas with Rieu's charismatic flair.
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Frank Zappa
Hot Rats
A thrilling fusion of jazz, rock, and avant-garde experimentation that defies traditional genre boundaries.
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Frank Zappa
Joe's Camouflage
A kaleidoscopic blend of jazz, rock, and experimental sounds that showcases Zappa's inventive musicality and sharp humor.
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By decade
Where classical music landed in each era.